First Impressions of Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning
The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning promises quick deployment and ample shelter for the overlanding enthusiast. From Overland Vehicle Systems, this awning is designed for mid- to high-roofline vans, offering a reported 88 square feet of coverage without the need for support poles during initial setup. The claims of durable construction and weather resistance immediately piqued my interest, as I’ve seen too many flimsy awnings buckle under moderate winds or leak during light rain.
My own overlanding setup has been lacking a reliable shelter solution for years. I’ve struggled with tarps and pop-up canopies that are either too cumbersome for solo travel or simply can’t withstand the unpredictable conditions of remote campsites. The promise of a one-person operation and robust weather protection are exactly what I’ve been searching for.
Upon unboxing, my first impression was positive. The awning was neatly packed in its heavy-duty PVC travel cover, and the material felt substantial. The weight was manageable for mounting on my van, and the included hardware seemed appropriately robust. Compared to cheaper awnings I’ve seen, the Nomadic 180 immediately felt like a significant step up in quality. It seemed far more rugged compared to the ARB4x4 awning I had been previously considering. My initial excitement was fueled by the promise of quick setup and reliable shelter, and I was eager to see if it would live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning during a solo camping trip in the Mojave Desert. The conditions were challenging, with gusty winds and fine sand being the primary adversaries. The setup process was remarkably straightforward; mounting was simple using the included brackets.
Deployment was indeed a one-person operation, taking less than a minute to swing the awning out and secure it. The wind definitely tested the awning’s freestanding capability, and while it held up initially, I deployed the support poles for added stability. The heat-sealed seams gave me confidence when I encountered an unexpected, brief rain shower.
The only surprise was the length of the included stakes. They were adequate for soft ground, but struggled in the hard-packed desert soil, requiring some creative anchoring solutions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use across various terrains, the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning has proven to be a reliable companion. I have used it over a dozen times now.
The 600D poly cotton rip-stop material has held up well against sun exposure and abrasion, showing minimal signs of wear. Cleaning is straightforward with a brush and mild soap, and the awning packs away easily into its travel cover.
Compared to my previous experiences with flimsy tarps and poorly designed shelters, the Nomadic 180 significantly outperforms them in terms of ease of use, weather resistance, and overall durability. It’s a substantial upgrade that has made my solo camping trips far more enjoyable and secure.
Breaking Down the Features of **Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning**
Specifications
- The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning boasts 88 square feet of freestanding covered shelter. This provides ample space for cooking, relaxing, or setting up a temporary workstation.
- It’s constructed from a durable 600D poly cotton rip-stop cover. This material offers a good balance of water resistance, UV protection, and tear resistance, essential for outdoor use.
- Boxed aluminum rafters provide structural integrity. These rafters are fully welded and reinforced, ensuring the awning can withstand wind and stress.
- Pivoting aluminum adjustable poles offer additional support. These poles extend to 9.85 feet, suitable for mid- to high-roofline vans, and feature a quick-lock system for easy adjustment.
- The package includes tie-down points for securing poles and managing water runoff. These tie-down points enhance stability in windy conditions and prevent water from pooling on the awning’s surface.
- A 1000G PVC travel cover with a #10 zipper protects the awning during transport. This heavy-duty cover is UV-rated at PU-2000, safeguarding the awning from sun damage and abrasion.
- Ballistic nylon tie-downs with S connects and buckles provide secure anchoring. These tie-downs are robust and easy to use, ensuring the awning remains firmly in place.
- A shock cord with retention helps manage loose ends and prevent flapping. This adds a touch of convenience and contributes to a cleaner setup.
- Zippers allow for the attachment of an optional enclosed shelter. This expands the awning’s functionality, creating a fully enclosed living space for added protection and privacy.
- Heavy-duty oversized stakes are included for secure ground anchoring. While effective in softer ground, they might require supplemental anchoring in hard-packed terrain.
- The awning weighs approximately 57 lbs. This weight is manageable for roof mounting and reflects the awning’s robust construction.
Performance & Functionality
The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning performs admirably in providing quick and reliable shelter. Its main strength lies in its ease of deployment and the substantial coverage it offers.
The freestanding design is functional in calm weather, but the support poles are necessary for windy conditions. The 600D fabric provides adequate protection from rain and sun, although prolonged exposure to heavy rain might require additional waterproofing.
The only area for potential improvement is the stake design, which could benefit from being more versatile for various soil types. Overall, the awning meets and even exceeds expectations for a product in its category.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning is impressive. The materials are clearly chosen for durability, and the construction feels solid and well-executed.
The awning’s weight is manageable for roof mounting, and the travel cover is designed for easy packing and transport. The design is user-friendly, with a straightforward deployment process that requires minimal effort or prior experience.
There’s a slight learning curve in optimizing the pole placement for maximum stability, but it’s easily mastered after a few uses.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning is built to last. The heavy-duty materials and robust construction suggest a long lifespan with proper care.
Maintenance is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is sufficient to keep the awning in good condition. The UV-rated travel cover protects the awning from sun damage, extending its lifespan.
The awning’s design also allows for easy repair of minor tears or damage, further enhancing its durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning comes with all the necessary accessories for basic setup, including adjustable support poles, stakes, and tie-down straps. A particularly attractive option is the availability of an optional enclosed shelter.
While the awning itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its universal mounting design makes it compatible with various roof rack systems and vehicles. The ability to add an enclosed shelter significantly enhances its functionality, creating a versatile camping space.
Pros and Cons of **Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning**
Pros
- Provides 88 square feet of freestanding covered shelter, ideal for camping or overlanding.
- Features durable 600D poly cotton rip-stop cover that resists tears and water damage.
- Offers boxed aluminum rafters providing excellent structural support in windy conditions.
- Enables quick one-person setup making it suitable for solo travelers.
- Has a UV-rated travel cover which protects the awning from sun damage when stowed.
Cons
- Included stakes are not ideal for hard-packed ground, potentially requiring alternative anchoring solutions.
- The freestanding design requires support poles in windy conditions, adding an extra step to setup.
Who Should Buy **Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning**?
The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning is perfect for overlanders, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and easy-to-deploy shelter solution. It’s particularly well-suited for solo travelers due to its one-person setup capability. Those who value convenience and weather protection will appreciate the awning’s robust construction and thoughtful design.
This product may not be ideal for individuals who primarily camp in established campgrounds with pre-existing shelters. Also, those who prioritize lightweight gear above all else might find the awning’s weight a limiting factor.
A must-have accessory is a set of heavy-duty ground anchors suitable for various soil conditions. Consider also the optional enclosed shelter to create a fully protected living space.
Conclusion on **Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning**
The Overland Vehicle Systems Nomadic 180 Roof Top Awning is a well-designed and durable shelter solution that delivers on its promises. Its easy deployment, ample coverage, and robust construction make it a valuable addition to any overlanding or camping setup.
The price of $429.49 is justified by the awning’s quality and functionality, offering a significant upgrade over cheaper, less reliable alternatives.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Nomadic 180 to anyone seeking a convenient and dependable shelter solution for their outdoor adventures. Invest in your comfort and protection – you won’t regret it!